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DETROIT (WWJ) – As the days grow shorter and winter approaches, it becomes increasingly difficult for many Americans to meet their vitamin D requirements. In some areas of the country, it is difficult or impossible to produce sufficient amounts of vitamin D from sun exposure, especially in winter months. In fact, research shows 40 percent of people 65 years of age and older, even those living in sunny climates, are not getting enough vitamin D.

Consuming natural food sources, like eggs, is one way to help individuals meet the recommended intake of vitamin D.

Eggs are one of the few foods that are a naturally good source of vitamin D, meaning that one egg provides at least 10 percent of the Recommended Daily Allowance.

Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium absorption, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Along with calcium, vitamin D prevents development of osteoporosis in older adults and without sufficient levels; the bones can become brittle or misshapen.

The USDA recently reviewed the egg nutrient data and results show that one Grade A, large egg contains 41 IU of vitamin D, 65 percent higher than the amount reported in the last nutrient analysis. The analysis also showed that the average amount of cholesterol in one large egg is 185 mg, 14 percent lower than the previously recorded.

Other natural dietary sources of vitamin D include fatty fish and fish oils, beef liver, mushrooms and fortified milk. Some brands of orange juice, margarine and other products can also contain added vitamin D.

Late last year, the Institute of Medicine increased its recommendation for the amount of vitamin D that individuals should consume in a day.